The Tropical Virus – Ebola Is Rapidly Engulfing West Africa

Ebola virus which had its first outbreak in 1976 in Democratic Republic of Congo known as Zaire previously has yet again engulfed the African continent. It is been feared that after taking a toll on 83 lives in Guinea alone this virus has spread across neighboring countries. There have been confirmed cases in Liberia, suspected cases in Mali and Sierra Leone. In a recent development in Tapeta, eastern town in Liberia, a hunter showing symptoms similar to viral attack in Ebola was admitted. Unfortunately he could not be survived and diagnosis confirmed that he had been infected. The health workers have raised their concerns particularly after knowing that he had not visited Guinea recently, and so this was an independent outbreak and not contracted from cross border traveling. A total of 14 cases of Ebola suspects have been registered in Liberia as of now.

Ebola virus spreads mainly through fruits bats and decaying wild animals. Regions with high density of bats are geographically marked sensitive. After this outbreak the government of Guinea has banned the consumption of bat meat, in spite of the fact that bush meat is a popular delicacy. This disease is communicable among us through blood, sweat, bodily fluids and feces. Due to poor sanitation, unprotected sexual contact, high population density and unprotected handling of contaminated corpse, Ebola has become increasingly difficult to curb.

Health authorities have reported about 134 cases registered in Guinea since the beginning of this year. World Health Organization has come up with its figure of 65% fatality rate in Guinea. Till date vaccines are not available for curbing this virus. Health officers from Medecins Sans Frontieres, Conakry are treating patients and suspects by isolating them and giving them drips to control diarrhea and medications to reduce body temperature. Internationally supports have been offered to diagnose and contain Ebola virus spread.